Group arrested in protest demanding fair immigration reform

WASHINGTON (WUSA9) -- Witnesses at the scene of a demonstration on Thursday morning say nearly 100 people were arrested at the intersection of Independence Avenue & New Jersey Avenue.

U.S. Capitol Police confirmed a large group of people sitting at the intersection were arrested, but a spokesperson didn't have a final number of arrests. A list of charges is also not yet available. The arrestees were taken away for processing, according to the spokesperson.

Independence Avenue between First Street, SE to Washington Avenue, SW was closed during the demonstration but has since reopened.

Demonstration organizers said earlier that approximately 100 women, including undocumented immigrants, would be blockading the intersection outside the House of Representatives "to protest their inaction on comprehensive and inclusive immigration reform that treats women and children fairly."

Organizers added in a press release that "The act of civil disobedience is expected to include the largest number of undocumented immigrant women to date who will willingly submit to arrest. An additional 200 supporters will stand witness for the group and call on the House to match their courage by passing immigration reform."

Thursday afternoon, organizers said they planned to have children will deliver "red hearts of courage" to House leadership and key swing representatives to encourage them to take action for comprehensive immigration reform.